Liberal Arts students visit Neasden Temple
Our Liberal Arts students, currently studying at our International College of Further Education,
went on a study visit to London to visit
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, popularly known as the
'Neasden Temple', Europe's first and largest traditional Hindu temple.
The group viewed the ‘Understanding Hinduism' exhibition, and listened to a video detailing the history
and building of the Mandir. They also attended Ărti, a ceremony when lighted lamps are waved before the
sacred images, and Darshan, which is the viewing of the sacred images in the shrine. They then discussed
religious diversity in Britain in the 20th century and the secularisation theory – whether Britain is
becoming more secular.
Karen Heath, St. Clare's History teacher, said: "The Mandir is very beautiful and highly ornate. I think
we all appreciated the opportunity to visit a functioning place of worship, to learn something more about
the Hindu faith, and multicultural London."
Student Camilla Johnston, said: "It was really interesting to visit the temple as it is something a bit
off the ‘tourist' map of London. Since this is such a large and growing community in the UK, it was quite
nice to learn about their religion and culture."
St. Clare's
Liberal Arts Programme is for university undergraduates and gap year students from all over the
world who want the opportunity to study abroad in one of the most celebrated cities in the world – Oxford.
March
